As a proposal for a 300-megawatt wind farm in northern Benton County continues to gain support from local farmers, a state environmental group has expressed concerns about the potential impact on wildlife habitat the operation could have in the area. About 50 farmers and landowners in northern Benton County agreed this month to pursue the development of a 300-megawatt wind farm that would install between 100 and 125 wind turbines on their properties.

As a proposal for a 300-megawatt wind farm in northern Benton County continues to gain support from local farmers, a state environmental group has expressed concerns about the potential impact on wildlife habitat the operation could have in the area.

About 50 farmers and landowners in northern Benton County agreed this month to pursue the development of a 300-megawatt wind farm that would install between 100 and 125 wind turbines on their properties. After a second meeting last week, about 20 more farmers in the area agreed to include their land for consideration as the proposal goes forward.

The nearly 70 property owners account for about 20,000 acres of land, and are fielding proposals to conduct wind tests in the county to determine if the area is suitable for a wind farm.

The proposal has garnered attention of local environmental groups, which have expressed support of the group's pursuit of renewable energy... [continue via Web link]